MILS572 - Special Operations Forces Application

After successfully completing this course, you will be able to:

CO-1: Analyze the theories of special operations forces and the history of special operations.

CO-2: Critique the roles and missions of special operations forces and application of special operations across the spectrum of conflict.

CO-3: Assess the role of special operations and special operations forces in national security.

CO-4: Evaluate the influence of past experiences and practices on the conduct of special operations and the employment of special operations forces globally.

CO-5: Synthesize the strategic, policy, and doctrinal requirements for the conduct of special operations and the employment of special operations forces globally.

The course grade is based on the following assessments:

Discussion Forums – 20 percent

Each week, a discussion question is provided and posts should reflect an assimilation of the readings. Students are required to provide a substantive initial post by Thursday at 11:55 pm ET and respond to 2 or more classmates by Sunday 11:55 pm ET. Forum posts are graded on timeliness, relevance, knowledge of the weekly readings, and the quality of original ideas.

Research Question, Purpose Statement, and Literature Review Exercise – 15 percent

The components of this assignment include a research question, a purpose statement, and a literature review of at least 6 sources, two of which must be peer-reviewed. The specific research question should relate to a general topic in the course. 6-8 pages.

Research Paper – 35 percent

Adding to the 6-8-page assignment in Week Two, the research paper is a minimum of 10 additional pages of analysis of your topic, not including the cover page, the reference list, and any appendices.

Final Assignment – 30 percent

This assignment is a take-home essay assignment of 4 questions, 2-3 pages each, to test knowledge and assimilation of the course objectives. The exclusive use of required texts and readings from this course is mandatory.

Required Course Textbooks

There are no required textbooks for this class.

Required Readings

• External websites and other assigned readings are found in the Lessons area of the classroom.

• Weekly Lesson Notes and videos or audio files are found in the Lessons area of the classroom.